Sheffield activists show what a real peaceful protest is

Around 300 people from all walks of life made the streets of Sheffield into a sea of solidarity on Saturday 24 January 2026. The march protested the UK state arming the state of Israel, making us complicit in its genocide. And you know what? It was one of the most beautifully bright and welcoming marches I have been on. It showed that community-led resistance is not only powerful but joyful and welcoming;

The march began a little after 1.45 at Mount Pleasant Park, where the atmosphere was so uplifting. People of all demographics were there, from young kids to the older demographic. They gathered to share hugs, browse stalls and stand up for what they believe in. Musicians set a defiant yet uplifting tone for the march, performing classics like Bella Ciao to get people going.

The cops took a back seat to peace in Sheffield

The march demonstrated the true meaning of peaceful protest. For the march there wasn’t a fucking copper in sight. Not. Fucking. One. Even on a match day. We marched through the streets peacefully and it wasn’t until we got to the town hall that two measly police officers appeared. Sorry, but that is fucking wild.

Even when the march did face an occasional bit of hostility from passing football fans, the marchers remained calm and focused. The stewards acted fast, using bikes as a non-confrontational barrier, allowing the 300-strong group to proceed. This lack of policing allowed the community to show the world how a peaceful protest is achieved.

The rhythm of resistance even had me going

The Drummers for Palestine provided the beating heart of the protest. Their music was loud, unyielding and powerful. It kept energy levels high as we wound our way through to the city centre. It provided visibility to the march and sent a clear message that Sheffield residents will not stay silent while local industry profits from death.

Activist Nairobi led the chants along with others. They kept the energy levels high as they danced throughout the march. Not going to lie, I am someone with no rhythm and even I couldn’t help but join in because the vibes were that powerful. And trust me, I look like a dick when I dance. But I didn’t care, such was the power of this march.

Targeting the machinery of a genocide

The ultimate goal of the day remained the total shutdown of weapons factories. The movement is specifically targeting Forged Solutions, which is a local firm that is part of the F-35 fighter jet supply chain. Activists scream against the components made in Sheffield which are used directly in the genocide of Gaza.

Campaigners have also called out the University of Sheffield for its Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre. A complicity report shows that the AMRC carries out research for major arms firms like Boeing. And activists will no longer stand for it.

Powerful voices closed the day

When we finally reached the town hall, Annie from Sheffield Palestine Solidarity Campaign spoke about the Red Ribbon campaign. The ribbons are a symbol of solidarity for over 9,000 Palestinians currently being held in Israeli prisons. Annie described the prison system as a “state-sponsored regime of torture” citing the “Welcome to Hell” report.

This vibrant rally also featured Leigh Evans (knowns as Cadno), who is a retired emergency nurse and is a veteran in humanitarian aid. Evans is a well-known face in the movement following his terrifying adventure on the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. He went viral for an emotional plea to Egyptian police at the Rafah border, pleading with them to allow aid into Gaza.

Evans shared first hand accounts of the blockade, declaring the interception of the aid convoys in international waters as an “act of war.” He cried out against the “industrial mass murder” he saw as a medic and he called for an immediate and total arms embargo.

A beautiful day of action in Sheffield

The rally ended on a note of joy and determination. Those there were encouraged to wear red ribbons with pride. They’re a sign that the “voices of decency” will eventually prevail. The Sheffield PSC and other organisations have vowed to continue their marches until all local complicity in the Gaza genocide has ended.

And they will continue to do it with the joyful, embracing and peaceful vibes that the rally embodied. The participants will continue to dance, shout and make themselves heard in the most welcoming way possible.

On Saturday, this march was the epitome of peaceful protest, and they will continue to march until their demands are met.